Olivia Chen, NP
June 2, 2025
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are relied upon by health care providers for direct patient care support of physicians and registered nurses. The unique island distribution of Hawaii’s population requires LPNs to play an essential role in the state. The healthcare access improvement initiatives in Hawaii have increased the demand for qualified LPNs, particularly in areas with limited medical services.
Honolulu, HI - Public 2-Year - kapiolani.hawaii.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kapi'olani Community College offers a Certificate of Achievement in Practical Nursing, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam. This program combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, ensuring graduates are ready for entry-level nursing roles. With a focus on safe patient care and ethical responsibilities, it's accredited by the Hawai'i Board of Nursing. Financial aid and scholarships are available, making it accessible to aspiring nurses at various life stages.
Kahului, HI - Public 4-Year - maui.hawaii.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into the world of practical nursing at the University of Hawaii Maui College, where aspiring healthcare professionals can launch their career through a comprehensive Certificate of Achievement program. Students prepare to work under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians in diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, extended care facilities, clinics, and private nursing agencies. The program offers rigorous clinical practice with no substitution allowable, ensuring graduates are thoroughly prepared for real-world healthcare challenges. Prerequisites include specific science and academic courses, with competitive selection based on academic performance and a required TEAS test. Prospective students should budget for professional fees and be prepared to complete background checks and drug testing as part of the program requirements.
The state of Hawaii maintains traditional in-person instruction as its standard but offers new hybrid learning programs that combine online study with hands-on laboratory work and clinical practice. The state does not offer LPN programs that operate entirely online because clinical training requires direct patient contact. The hybrid learning approach provides better access to students who live on neighboring islands because they cannot attend traditional daily classes.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| University of Hawaii Maui College |
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| Kapiolani Community College |
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| Certifying Board | Hawaii Board of Nursing, Professional & Vocational Licensing Division |
|---|---|
| Certification | National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from an approved practical nursing program with official transcript or completion letter |
| Application & Fees | Online application through MyPVL with $40 application fee, $36 original license fee, $60 State Center for Nursing fee, plus submission of SSN and FD-258 fingerprint card for state and federal background checks |
| Processing Time | 15–20 business days for initial eligibility review, 45–60 business days from receipt of complete application to license issuance |
| License Renewal Period | Biennial renewal by June 30 of odd-numbered years (renewal window opens 60 days prior), active LPN renewal fee $196 |
| Continuing Competency | Completion of one Board-approved learning activity option, commonly 30 contact hours of continuing education, per renewal cycle |
| Licensure by Endorsement | Out-of-state LPNs select “By Reciprocity” in MyPVL, submit Nursys verification of current unrestricted license, pay endorsement fees (same as initial), provide fingerprint CBC and proof of recent practice or refresher, option for combined temporary permit. |
The national average salary for LPNs is exceeded in Hawaii; the median annual salary lies at $58,200, while some professionals receive $55,000 and others have an annual income of $62,000. The demand for LPNs is strong, especially in long-term care facilities, home healthcare settings, and rural healthcare locations. The aging population of Hawaii, together with healthcare service growth throughout the islands, will drive increasing demand for LPNs.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Hawaii | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $60,031 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $29.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$67,090 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $60,031 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$54,115 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~5% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~120 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Kapiolani Community College |
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| University of Hawaii Maui College |
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LPN-to-RN bridge programs serve as a career advancement route for individuals who want to become registered nurses. The programs accept prior nursing education, so LPNs can finish their associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing in a shorter duration than beginning from zero. LPNs can advance their careers by obtaining specialized certifications while leading clinical teams or by pursuing nursing or healthcare management degrees.
Additional Nursing Programs in Hawaii
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